Precisely regulating the d-band center of Ni3S2 by doping M (M = Fe, Zn and Sn) as efficient electrocatalytic seawater splitting catalysts
摘要
The technology of H2 production from water electrolysis has attracted much attention due to its sustainable characteristics. In this paper, through the strategies of atomic doping, the M (M = Fe, Zn and Sn)-Ni3S2/NF catalyst was successfully prepared for overall seawater splitting. In 1.0 M KOH + seawater electrolyte system, the Fe-Ni3S2/NF shows acceptable stability in a two-electrode system and can achieve efficient overall seawater splitting at a potential of 1.568 V. The experimental results show that the increase in activity for Fe-Ni3S2/NF is attributed to faster electron transfer, more exposure of active sites and enhanced conductivity due to doping of Fe. Through density functional theory calculations, the doping of Fe significantly regulate the d-band center of Ni3S2 catalyst, reduces the Gibbs free energy of hydrogen adsorption, and improves the charge transfer efficiency. This work provides a novel design idea for the development of high-efficiency and low-cost electrodes for seawater electrolysis to produce hydrogen, promotes the sustainable development of hydrogen energy technology, and lays an important foundation for achieving the goal of carbon neutrality.